DIKUW - Definitions: Data

There has been extensive debate about how to define the related concepts of data, information, knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. So, let’s start by discussing possible definitions, beginning with "data."

Data are symbols reflecting facts, perceptions, measurements, observations, etc., which are the raw elements (building blocks) of information. Data may be:

• Measures/Values of phenomena (things, events, experiences), such as its quantity, intensity, frequency, duration, rank/position/level, rate, duration, time and location of occurrence, length/width/depth, central tendency (mean, mode, median), degree of deviation or change, correlation, trend, statistical significance, etc.
• Labels/Descriptions of some phenomena, such as identities/names of persons, places, things, and events.

Data may or may not be valid (e.g., an accurate measurement or a correct label) and reliable (dependable, consistent).

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